Ulster hero Andy Ward may soon take his first step on the coaching ladder since announcing his retirement from rugby.

Belfast Harlequins were certainly in play-off mode at Deramore Park today, as South African WP Strauss inspired them to a nine-try 68-10 Division One win over Galwegians.

Lansdowne 9 Belfast Harlequins 13

HAVING won Division One last season, Shannon travel to play 2003 champions Ballymena at Eaton Park today.

Belfast Harlequins moved into second in the AIB League Division One table as they bagged a bonus point 26-0 win over strugglers County Carlow at Deramore Park.

Belfast Harlequins 19 Shannon 18

Garryowen 6 Belfast Harlequins 13

Belfast Harlequins 28 Dublin University 10

Belfast Harlequins 19 Ballymena 0

Belfast Harlequins 24 St Mary's College 9

Ireland Under-21 Andrew Finn will start at full-back for Dolphin away to Garryowen.

Co Carlow 13 Belfast Harlequins 24

Galwegians 12 Belfast Harlequins 47

Belfast Harlequins 24 UCD 23

Buccaneers 18 Belfast Harlequins 24

Belfast Harlequins 19 Shannon 24

Belfast Harlequins made a fruitless journey to Dublin yesterday and ended up with a €100 bill for extra long studs.